This sponsorship comes at a crucial moment as Kenya's Shujaa gears up for the World Rugby Circuit, set to kick off on November 30, 2024, in Dubai.
Kenya Rugby has every reason to celebrate as Safaricom unveils a monumental Ksh. 100 million sponsorship package aimed at bolstering the Rugby Sevens teams.
This groundbreaking partnership, facilitated through M-PESA, includes monthly allowances for players and officials, comprehensive medical insurance, airtime allowances, and financial literacy programs lasting two years.
The sponsorship is expected to resolve longstanding disputes between players and management regarding contract issues and payment delays, ushering in a new era of stability and progress for the sport.
This sponsorship comes at a crucial moment as Kenya's Shujaa gears up for the World Rugby Circuit, set to kick off on November 30, 2024, in Dubai. Meanwhile, the Lionesses are set to return to action in January for the World Cup Challenger Sevens Series.
Shujaa’s Head Coach, Kevin Wambua, lauded M-PESA’s pivotal role in the team’s resurgence, remarking, “Safaricom’s support is a timely boost as we prepare to showcase our talent, resilience, and passion on the world stage. With M-PESA’s backing, we are more motivated than ever to make Kenya proud.”
Speaking at the unveiling ceremony in NAIROBI, Esther Waititu, Safaricom’s Chief Financial Services Officer said “The National 7’s teams consistently make us proud on the global stage. As ardent supporters of Kenyan sports, we are dedicated to making it easier for them to pursue their passion and achieve their dreams. M-PESA has been a steadfast partner, committed to the growth and success of Kenyan rugby. We hope to continue transforming lives through sports in Kenya and globally,”
By empowering both Shujaa and the Lionesses, M-PESA is fostering a sustainable sporting ecosystem that will benefit future generations of athletes.
“This partnership with Kenya Rugby Union is about more than just the elite players. We are committed to nurturing and advancing grassroot sports in Kenya, which is why Safaricom’s sponsorship will also focus on initiatives that develop young talent, from junior teams to the professional level,” Ms Waititu said.
“We are excited to have M-PESA return to rugby sponsorship with support for both the men’s national team, Shujaa, and the women’s national team, the Lionesses, earning our brand enviable association with two successful teams. Our over KSh. 100 million sponsorship places a stronger emphasis on sustainability by focusing on aspects that enable the team to succeed globally, grow their fan base, and importantly, empowering players to develop a dependable financial future beyond their careers,” said Sitoyo Lopokoiyit, Managing Director, M-PESA Africa.
Over the past decade, Safaricom has invested more than Ksh. 2 billion in supporting various Kenyan sports, including athletics, rugby, youth football, and national Olympic teams, among others.